Choosing between Birmingham uni vs Southampton uni
Hi people,
I'm trying to decide between pharmacology at Southampton uni or biomedical science at Birmingham uni, and I'm happy with both courses so it mostly is between the city / campus. Has anyone got any experience as a student and willing to share their thoughts? I think Birmingham city may be a bit more overwhelming in terms of size but it seems the campus is very nice and lots to do - although I'm not sure if it has the same community feel as Southampton, which seems very friendly but maybe not as much to do?
Thanks,
Emma
I'm trying to decide between pharmacology at Southampton uni or biomedical science at Birmingham uni, and I'm happy with both courses so it mostly is between the city / campus. Has anyone got any experience as a student and willing to share their thoughts? I think Birmingham city may be a bit more overwhelming in terms of size but it seems the campus is very nice and lots to do - although I'm not sure if it has the same community feel as Southampton, which seems very friendly but maybe not as much to do?
Thanks,
Emma
Reply 1
Birmingham is much better and the city is lovely - would highly recommend
Reply 2
I think living for several year in a big or small city makes a big difference and is an important factor, but you should focus more on the course... You will spend a big chunk of your time studying, don't underestimate it.... best wished for your future.
Reply 3
10
as someone currently at southampton i'll give my little review of the city: its acceptable, some very nice areas such as the common and ocean village. Nightlife is pretty good if thats something you want. Campus is very nice, most of the buildings are up to date (especially the biomed one). People, its a city, i wouldn't reccomend going to half the places alone, a student even got murdered a couple months back going down one of the dodgier roads, but if you stay in the right places you'll meet a lot of friendly people, if you have any questions feel free to reach out.
(edited 3 weeks ago)
Reply 4
Hiya, Emma! I've lived in Southampton for about 3 years now, so I hope I can give you some insight that makes your choice a bit easier today
What stands out most about Southampton is how easy it is to settle in. The campus has a relaxed, friendly energy and doesn’t feel intimidating or overly spread out. You quickly build a sense of familiarity, whether that’s through lectures, labs, societies, or just bumping into the same people around campus, which really helps create a strong community feel.
The city adds another layer without overpowering student life. Southampton has enough going on to keep things interesting: student nights, bars, restaurants, and regular events, all within a short bus ride. It never feels chaotic, but it’s far from quiet. Most students naturally move between campus and the city, so you get the best of both without feeling lost or overwhelmed.
Overall, Southampton feels balanced and approachable, busy when you want it to be, calm when you don’t.
Anusha
Final year Marketing Student
What stands out most about Southampton is how easy it is to settle in. The campus has a relaxed, friendly energy and doesn’t feel intimidating or overly spread out. You quickly build a sense of familiarity, whether that’s through lectures, labs, societies, or just bumping into the same people around campus, which really helps create a strong community feel.
The city adds another layer without overpowering student life. Southampton has enough going on to keep things interesting: student nights, bars, restaurants, and regular events, all within a short bus ride. It never feels chaotic, but it’s far from quiet. Most students naturally move between campus and the city, so you get the best of both without feeling lost or overwhelmed.
Overall, Southampton feels balanced and approachable, busy when you want it to be, calm when you don’t.
Anusha
Final year Marketing Student
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